MONTREAL — Federation CJA’s 2012 Combined Jewish Appeal (CJA) campaign came to an official end on Nov. 21 with an evening that shifted from the traditional celebration to an opportunity to stand with Israel.

Close to 800 community members were at Place des Arts to express their solidarity with the Jewish state and their commitment to the worldwide Jewish community.

General campaign chair Evan Feldman announced the projected results: $36,702,602 for the regular CJA, plus just under $2 million in one-time designated donations and $660,190 in undesignated donations, for a total of more than $39 million to be spent locally and in Israel.

The 2012 campaign recorded more than 1,700 new donors, representing more than $500,000 in donations, Feldman said.

“With the potential to exponentially impact annual campaigns in the future, the effort this year on soliciting these new contributions is to be commended,” he said.

“It has been a true privilege to work alongside such tireless volunteers and professionals. Our community has so much to be proud of. In just three short months, we band together to raise the funds that are so vitally needed to sustain and strengthen our incredible community.”

The chairs are supported by a team of more than 800 canvassers, each responsible for contacting members of the community in an appeal that has been an annual tradition in the Montreal Jewish community for almost 100 years.

Although the total number of donors has decreased over the last decade, Montreal ranks among the highest in per capita giving among North American federations, Feldman noted.

This year also marks the launch of the federation’s Generations Fund, whose goal is to raise $100 million for an endowment. To date, $64 million has been pledged.

Federation president David Cape stated: “We are well positioned to meet the needs of our community today and into the future through the bold vision and generosity of our donors. It is our collective responsibility – each and all of us – to ensure that we thrive today, tomorrow and for generations to come.”

The evening also included a performance by Israeli singer-songwriter David Broza and an address by Israeli Consul General in Montreal Joel Lion.